On April 18, 2025, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Olimjon Abdullaev, held a significant meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Won Do-yeon. This meeting, reported by the news agency "Dunyo," focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in labor migration and simplifying visa procedures for Uzbek citizens.
During their discussions, the two officials delved into crucial topics such as the preparation of highly qualified personnel for South Korea's labor market, the development of joint educational programs, and the introduction of new initiatives aimed at pre-vocational training. The need for simplifying visa processes, particularly for seasonal workers, was also a focal point of their conversation.
Both parties expressed a commitment to continuing the dialogue to create more favorable conditions for Uzbek citizens working in South Korea. This meeting is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties between the two nations, especially in the context of labor migration.
Earlier, on March 17, 2025, representatives from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with a delegation from South Korea led by Ulsan Mayor Kim Du-gyeom. During this encounter, it was announced that South Korea would implement a new mechanism for simplified processing of work visas for Uzbek citizens directly through the mayor's office. According to Mayor Kim, this innovative approach allows citizens who complete a three-month vocational training and Korean language study program to obtain work visas and secure employment.
This pilot project, if successful, could be extended to other cities in South Korea, marking a significant shift in the way work visas are processed for Uzbek nationals. The South Korean side also indicated their willingness to consider organizing employment opportunities for Uzbek citizens together with their families, provided visa requirements are met and illegal stays are avoided.
In early April 2025, Bekhzod Musaev, the Director of the Agency for External Labor Migration, also met with Ambassador Won Do-yeon in Tashkent. The discussions included the employment of Uzbek citizens in South Korea, the joint consideration of appeals from compatriots, the organization of EPS-TOPIK exams in various regions, and the expansion of labor programs for both professional and seasonal visas. Measures to prevent illegal employment were also a key topic.
Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing the teaching of the Korean language to candidates seeking employment, as requested by employers. The ambassador expressed concern regarding the status of citizens registered in the electronic database who had not been selected by employers, assuring that he would work diligently to resolve this issue. He also highlighted the importance of adhering strictly to labor contract terms by those traveling to work in South Korea, as this would help build trust with Korean employers.
Uzbekistan has been a participant in the Korean Employment Permit System (EPS) since 2007, which has facilitated the migration of approximately 48,000 Uzbek citizens to South Korea. In 2024 alone, remittances from South Korea to Uzbekistan reached a remarkable $534 million. This financial flow underscores the economic significance of labor migration for Uzbekistan.
In May 2024, Uzbekistan successfully negotiated an agreement with South Korean authorities to attract Uzbek workers for seasonal jobs. However, it is worth noting that in 2021, South Korea had to suspend recruitment due to numerous violations of labor agreements by Uzbek citizens, many of whom failed to return to their home country within the stipulated time frames.
The ongoing discussions and agreements between Uzbekistan and South Korea highlight a proactive approach to labor migration, aiming not only to facilitate employment but also to ensure that workers are well-prepared and supported throughout their employment journey. As both nations continue to strengthen their partnership, the focus remains on creating sustainable and beneficial conditions for workers, enhancing educational opportunities, and streamlining administrative processes.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Uzbekistan and South Korea in the realm of labor migration is evolving, with significant steps being taken to improve the visa process and support the workforce. The commitment from both sides to address challenges and enhance opportunities signals a promising future for Uzbek citizens seeking employment abroad.
